Beat butter, vanilla and sugar in a small bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolk and brandy. Transfer mixture to a large bowl; stir in almonds and combined sifted flours.Preheat the oven to moderately slow (160C/140C fan-forced). Take a level tablespoon of dough and roll between palms into sausage shape,tapering at ends; bend into a crescent. Repeat with remaining dough.Place on lightly greased baking trays, 3 cm apart.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until browned lightly. Cool on baking trays for 5minutes.